Orthodox Tea gets its name from the traditional way in which it is prepared. This method is used to produce a variety of loose tea leaves, including white, green, oolong, and black tea. Tea processed using the orthodox method typically has a bright and brisk colour, with a multi-layered flavour profile. Depending on the type of tea being produced, Orthodox Tea is rolled or shaped into different sizes. The traditional methods of tea production involve plucking, withering, rolling, oxidation, and drying. Here are some useful insights about Orthodox Tea:
History of Orthodox Black Tea:
Tea was originally prepared by crushing and boiling the leaves, and lighter varieties such as white and oolong tea were preferred. It wasn't until the 17th century that black tea was discovered, as people realised that tea leaves left to oxidise under the sun would turn black. In the 19th century, the British developed a more refined process for tea production, allowing for better quality and control over flavour. Orthodox Tea processing involves withering the leaves before rolling and oxidising them by hand. The first Orthodox Tea factory was established in Darjeeling in the 19th century. Today, the demand for Orthodox Tea is high due to its strong and unique flavour profile, making it an integral part of the tea industry.
Making of Orthodox Tea:
Orthodox Tea is prepared in a traditional method. The process involves:
Plucking: The tea leaves are carefully handpicked and stored in bamboo baskets.
Withering: The freshly picked tea leaves are then spread out to dry under the sun. This removes the moisture from the tea leaves and softens them. This step ensures that the tea leaves are supple and do not crumble during the processing that ensues after.
Rolling: The tea leaves are rolled out to desired shapes either by hand-pressing techniques or by the use of machines.
Oxidising: The most important step of Orthodox Tea processing is oxidising. It helps the tea leaves achieve the maximum flavour and gives them an oxidised and darker appearance. Oxidising makes the tea rich in flavour, colour, and aroma.
Drying: Drying is the final step of tea processing wherein the tea leaves are further dried in an optimum temperature before they are packed and transported.
Steps to brew the perfect cup of Orthodox Black Tea:
Orthodox Black Tea is the most preferred type of tea and is rather simple to prepare. Here is how to brew the perfect cup of tea for one:
Boil water in a pan.
Add 1 teaspoon of Orthodox Tea.
Cover the pan and let it steep. Turn off the heat.
Wait for 2 to 3 minutes before straining in a cup.
Adding milk to the tea is optional.
Add a sweetener of choice such as sugar, honey, or stevia.
Enjoy with a cookie or light snack.
Flavour and aroma:
Orthodox Tea is widely regarded as superior in quality due to its careful processing, and it often has a stronger and more refined flavour profile compared to other types of tea. The flavour can vary depending on the region in which it is grown and the specific variety of tea. Orthodox Black Tea is known for its rich and full-bodied flavour with an astringent aftertaste, and it may have earthy, floral, fruity, spicy, smoky, or woody notes, depending on the specific tea.
Benefits of Orthodox Tea:
In addition to being flavourful, Orthodox Tea also has a range of health benefits. It contains antioxidants which help neutralise damaged cells of the body and boost the immune system. The amino acid L-theanine in Orthodox Tea can significantly reduce stress levels. Additionally, the loose tea leaves have a calming effect on the body which promotes mental clarity. The caffeine content in Orthodox Tea can also improve intellectual agility.
Looking for Orthodox Tea online?
If you are looking for premium quality Orthodox Tea, explore our teas. You can explore our Assam Nahorhabi Second Flush Special Orthodox Golden Tips Black Tea 2021 which is produced in the Nahorhabi Tea Estate. This tea estate has been planted with clonal tea bushes which yield one of the finest varieties of tea in the region. We also process premium quality Orthodox Teas in our Mangalam Tea Estate. You can explore Assam Mangalam First Flush Robust and Sweet Orthodox Black Tea 2021 and Assam Mangalam Second Flush Special Black Tea 2022.
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